What Not to Do With Your PMU Machine: A Survival Guide for Artists
Let’s face it—permanent makeup machines are like high-performance sports cars. They can create stunning results in the right hands, but one wrong move and suddenly you’re in a world of trouble. Whether you're a seasoned artist or a fresh-faced newbie, avoiding these common mistakes can mean the difference between flawless brows and a client who (rightfully) never returns.
So, buckle up. Here’s your no-nonsense guide to what NOT to do with your PMU machine—unless you enjoy chaos, unhappy clients, and possibly a lawsuit.
1. Don’t Skip the Manual (Yes, Really)
You wouldn’t assemble a piece of IKEA furniture without glancing at the instructions, so why would you assume you can operate a precision PMU machine without reading the manual?
Why It’s Bad:
Every machine has quirks. Some need a break-in period. Others have specific voltage ranges for different procedures. Ignoring this can lead to jerky needle movements, uneven pigment distribution, or even motor burnout.
Some devices have hidden features (like pulse modes for shading) that you’ll miss if you just wing it.
What to Do Instead:
Actually read the manual (or at least skim the important parts).
Bookmark the troubleshooting section—because when your machine starts making a weird noise mid-session, you’ll want answers fast.
2. Don’t Use the Wrong Needles for the Job
Using a Magnum needle for fine hair strokes is like trying to paint the Mona Lisa with a roller. It’s just not going to work.
Why It’s Bad:
Wrong needle = wrong results. A needle that’s too thick will create blurry, unnatural lines. Too thin, and you’ll struggle with pigment retention.
Some needles are machine-specific. Forcing a non-compatible cartridge into your device can damage the grip or cause inconsistent movement.
What to Do Instead:
Match the needle to the technique:
Nano brows? Use ultra-fine round needles (0.18mm–0.25mm).
Powder brows? A flat or round magnum works better.
Always check your machine’s compatibility list before buying new cartridges.
3. Don’t Ignore Voltage Settings (Or You’ll Overwork the Skin)
Cranking your machine up to max voltage because "faster must be better" is a rookie mistake—and a great way to scar your client for life.
Why It’s Bad:
Too much voltage = excessive trauma. This leads to:
Patchy healing (because the skin is too damaged to hold pigment).
Blowouts (where pigment spreads under the skin, creating a blurry mess).
Increased pain (and nobody wants a client screaming into a stress ball).
What to Do Instead:
Follow recommended voltage ranges for each technique:
Microblading/Hairstrokes: 5V–7V
Shading/Ombré: 7V–9V
Lip Blush: 6V–8V
Adjust based on skin type (thicker skin may need slightly higher voltage).
4. Don’t Work With a Dirty Machine (Unless You Love Infections)
If you’re not sterilizing your PMU machine properly, you might as well lick the needle before inserting it—because that’s basically the level of hygiene you’re offering.
Why It’s Bad:
Bacteria and bloodborne pathogens are real. Cross-contamination can lead to:
Infections (and not the kind that go away with antibiotics).
Legal trouble (because "I didn’t know" isn’t a defense in court).
A ruined reputation (clients talk, and not in a good way).
What to Do Instead:
Disassemble and sterilize all removable parts (autoclave if possible).
Wipe down the machine with medical-grade disinfectant between clients.
Use disposable barriers (like plastic sleeves) for added protection.
5. Don’t Practice on Real Skin Without Proper Training
Just because you watched 20 YouTube tutorials doesn’t mean you’re ready to tattoo someone’s face.
Why It’s Bad:
Permanent makeup is permanent. A shaky hand or wrong technique can leave clients with:
Asymmetrical brows (the "surprised all the time" look).
Unblended lips (hello, 90s lip liner revival).
Patchy results (requiring costly corrections—or laser removal).
What to Do Instead:
Practice on artificial skin until your lines are flawless.
Take a certified course (because hands-on training is priceless).
Start with low-stakes clients (friends who know you’re learning, not paying customers).
6. Don’t Use Cheap Pigments (You Get What You Pay For)
If your pigment costs less than a Starbucks latte, it’s probably garbage.
Why It’s Bad:
Cheap pigments often contain:
Heavy metals (which can turn gray or cause allergic reactions).
Unstable dyes (leading to rapid fading or color shifts).
Unknown ingredients (because "mystery formula" is never a good sign).
What to Do Instead:
Invest in high-quality, certified pigments (FDA, EU-compliant).
Do a patch test before using a new pigment on clients.
Stick to reputable brands (or work with a trusted OEM supplier).
7. Don’t Rush the Healing Process (Patience is a Virtue)
Telling your client they can scrub their brows after 3 days is like telling someone they can drive a car with flat tires.
Why It’s Bad:
Picking scabs = patchy pigment loss.
Excessive moisture = blurred results.
Sun exposure = faster fading.
What to Do Instead:
Give clients detailed aftercare instructions (in writing).
Schedule a touch-up appointment (because even the best work needs refining).
Warn them that final results take 4–6 weeks to fully settle.
Final Thoughts: A PMU Machine is a Tool, Not a Magic Wand
The difference between a master artist and a disaster artist comes down to technique, hygiene, and common sense. Avoid these mistakes, and you’ll not only create better results—you’ll build a loyal client base that trusts you with their face.
And if you’re ever in doubt? Slow down, double-check, and never stop learning.
(Or, you know, just keep doing whatever and hope for the best. But we don’t recommend that.)
Want more PMU pro tips? [Contact Us for OEM Machine & Pigment Solutions]. Because even the best artists need the right tools.
